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In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

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May 11, 2007 – The Mother Every Child Needs – 1 Samuel 1:19-28

 

 

Welcome to the In Touch Devotional.

No perfect model of motherhood exists. Children have different temperaments and personalities, and it takes all kinds of mothers to raise them well. But as different as kids are, they do have some common needs.

First, every child needs a mother who wants her children. Nothing is more devastating to a youngster than to grow up feeling unwanted or unloved. A broken connection with Mom can haunt a child throughout life. This may hinder relationships with Jesus Christ, friends, and spouses. As a future adult, that child may struggle with a suspicion that he or she is unlovable.

Second, every child needs a mother who cares for her children. To be healthy and stable adults, kids need a mom who invests in their body, mind, and spirit. Busy parents too often substitute material things for emotional and spiritual support. Buying the latest fashionable clothes may meet a desire. But talking and listening to understand a child’s feelings meets the needs of the heart.

Third, every child needs a mother who surrenders her children to God. From an early age, boys and girls should understand they belong to the Lord. Whatever God calls them to do, Mom needs to support His plan with love for them and faith in Him. In 1 Samuel 1:28, we learn children are a gift that parents should return to the Giver’s service, just as Hannah did with her son Samuel.

Mothers aren’t perfect. But God is. Through Him, a mom can fulfill her calling to want, protect, and surrender her children, no matter how old they are.

If thou art willing to suffer no adversity, how wilt thou be the
friend of Christ?

-- Thomas à Kempis
May 11, 2007


VERSE:
A wicked man hardeneth his face: but as for the upright, he
directeth his way.
-- Proverbs 21:29

http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Proverbs+21:29&translation=kjv

THOUGHT:
When we harbor wickedness in our hearts, there are all sorts of
"fronts" we have to keep up so people won't know the truth about
us. But if righteousness is our aim, we'll try to live up to that
goal with honesty. When we blow it, we'll be honest and ask
forgiveness, learning from our mistakes. We won't put up a facade.
We know that even though we're flawed, God is not through working
on us yet!

PRAYER:
Thank you, Almighty God, for the many times you have forgiven
me. I'm sorry for the times I've tried to hide my sin from others
and from you. I want to live an honest, upright life, bringing
glory to you in what I do, what I say, and how I treat others.
Please grant me this grace with increasing measure day by day. In
Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that
ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

Proverbs 16:32, King James Version

 

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In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

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May 10, 2007 – Honoring Our Moms - Matthew 16:24-27

Welcome to the In Touch Devotional.

God gives every mother a special calling. She invests in her children's development and spiritual growth to fulfill this lifetime commitment.

A godly mother's memories are rich with times of reading Bible stories, teaching songs about Jesus, and explaining His importance to the whole family. This type of godly interaction forms a good basis for an intimate connection with her children.

The best way to honor Mom is by trusting Jesus Christ and living a surrendered, obedient life. Christian mothers provide their children with an example of how to follow the Lord. They do this through sacrifices, the willingness to follow His will, and loving devotion to family and to Him. Her greatest desire is for us to live a life devoted to Jesus too. She's honored when we choose to walk in God's will and surrender to His service.

Some of us have a mother who doesn't know Jesus as her personal Savior. First Corinthians 13:8 says, "Love never fails." If we consistently show her respect through loving words and acts of kindness, we may get the perfect opportunity to lead her to a salvation.

Mothers desire the reward of knowing their time has been well spent. As we allow God to speak into our lives, we'll impact the lives of others. Our mothers will be honored. Commit to show love to your mom by devoting yourself to her, praying on her behalf, and living a godly life.

Worry gives a small thing a big shadow.

-- Swedish Proverb

May 10, 2007


VERSE:
And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which
are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in
Christ Jesus.
-- 2 Timothy 3:15

http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=2+Timothy+3:15&translation=kjv

THOUGHT:
From infancy! If you had a godly mom that brought you into the
world surrounded by faith in Jesus, stories from the Bible, and
lullabies of faith, then praise God and thank her. If you didn't,
then make a commitment that your children and your grandchildren
will be given this head start in life. Yes, personal faith will be
won in adolescence or adulthood, but beginning in infancy is such a
blessing. To fill a child's world with love and hope and promise
because of Jesus is the greatest gift a parent can give!

PRAYER:
Holy and attentive Father, I thank you for the incredible gift
of believing parents. I pray that more of us who do believe will be
active in sharing our faith with our children. Please make my
family and my life a place where children and grandchildren can
find it easy to believe and safe to rejoice in Jesus. In his
precious name I praise and thank you. Amen.

The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, to depart from the
snares of death.

Proverbs 14:27, King James Version

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In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

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May 9, 2007 – A Step Away – Genesis 12:1-5

 

 

Welcome to the In Touch Devotional.

Years ago, Dr. Stanley had a wonderful young man serving on his church staff. He did a fabulous job, had a great attitude, and was a true asset to the ministry. Dr. Stanley really liked him. But, at that time, the church was forced to make some necessary staff cutback and had to let this man go. Even though it was the right decision, Dr. Stanley had a difficult time informing him.

Later, Dr. Stanley saw him in public, and he made the most remarkable comment. He said, “You know, when you had to let me go, the first thing the Lord said to me was, ‘Well, now you’re going to have to obey Me whether you want to or not!’”

He explained that he’d sensed the Lord calling him to seminary two years earlier. But he didn’t go. He liked his ministry position at the church, made adequate money to care for his family, and enjoyed living in that particular area. He felt quite content with the way things were. And he simply couldn’t let go of his comfort to follow the Lord’s leading. In reality, his comfortable position had become an obstacle. So, God removed it. But a year later, he was enrolled in seminary. He finally enjoyed the blessings of following God’s call and plan for His life.

How frequently do we miss out on God’s will because we’ve become comfortable where we are? Sometimes the call of faith is a call away from what we know and love. Is there any comfort in your life that may block your obedience to God? Renew your commitment to Him today, wherever He may lead.

There remains for us only the very narrow way, often extremely
difficult to find, of living every day as though it were our
last, and yet living in faith and responsibility as though there
were to be a great future.

-- Dietrich Bonhoeffer

May 9, 2007


VERSE:
And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received
the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost. So that ye
were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.
-- 1 Thessalonians 1:6-7

http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Thessalonians+1:6-7&translation=kjv

THOUGHT:
The cycle of faithfulness is illustrated in this passage. The
Lord is our great example. People of faith model the Lord's
character and passion to us. We then live that life of faith as an
example to others. In other words, the Gospel is more than words!
The Gospel is the good news of Jesus taking root in the life of a
person until the fruit it bears is enough of an example of the Lord
that someone else sees it and begins to live it, too! The Gospel is
both caught and taught!

PRAYER:
Holy God, thank you for making your character known both in
Scripture and in human flesh through Jesus. Through your Holy
Spirit, I ask that you form in me the character of Christ so that
others may see Jesus in my example and live for him. In the
precious name of the Savior Jesus I pray. Amen.

The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is
of the LORD.

Proverbs 16:33, King James Version

 

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In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

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May 8, 2007 – Ways to Honor Our Mother – 2 Corinthians 9:6-15

 

 

Welcome to the In Touch Devotional.

Many of us know the blessing of a mother who always wanted the best for her family. She offered physical care, emotional support, encouragement, and protection. God desires that we honor mothers throughout their lives. Consider three simple ways:

First, help her cheerfully. Mom appreciates helpers with a good attitude. But she also values their companionship. The family's willingness to spend time with Mother while she carries out her tasks will bring her joy. As children become adults, it's important they find ways of making her a regular part of their lives.

Second, treat her kindly. Kind sons and daughters desire to meet Mom's needs in thoughtful, sensitive ways. Young children can do this through respectful speech and obedient actions. Adults can demonstrate respect by hugging and expressing how much they love their mother. They can also show care through acts of service. Families who live far apart still need to identify opportunities to assist her. Remember, the older Mother becomes, the more help she'll need.

Third, provide for her generously. Ever notice how easily pleased some mothers are? Since she wants her husband and children to have what they desire, Mom often willingly accepts what's left over. But honoring a mother means meeting her needs first, giving more than the little she expects, and offering your very best.

Our heavenly Father helps us whenever we ask and treats us with infinite kindness. He provides generously for us. Let's do the same for our moms.

The only saving faith is that which casts itself on God for life
or death.

-- Martin Luther

May 8, 2007


VERSE:
I will praise thee, O LORD, among the people: and I will sing
praises unto thee among the nations.
-- Psalm 108:3

http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Psalm+108:3&translation=kjv

THOUGHT:
Songs go where evangelism, witnessing, and planned outreach
sometimes cannot go. Songs tell a story, offer praise, and deliver
truth in a package that opens the heart and stirs the emotions.
Songs give life to the soul and stir something primal, buried deep
inside by God. When you are around friends you are trying to reach
with the Gospel, listen for the kind of music they like. Then when
the time is right, point them to songs that share the message of
the Gospel with a melody and beat that can stir their hearts. God
wants us to praise him, not just in our sanctuaries and churches,
but with our friends and across cultures. He wants us to sing in
ways that help other people know the "heart song" of our Redeemer's
love.

PRAYER:
Almighty God and righteous Father, thank you so much for the
gift of song. Thank you for lyricists that capture the mood of our
hearts and the word of your grace and help move others closer to
faith. Please bless all those involved in bringing Christian songs
to the public and making your Word more understandable to the
masses. Empower singing in your Church, and help us to sing of your
salvation in ways that reach all peoples on the earth. In Jesus'
name I pray. Amen.

A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth:
and the recompense of a man's hands shall be rendered unto him.

Proverbs 12:14, King James Version

 

Creative Spiritz

Salt, when dissolved in water, may disappear, but it does not
cease to exist. We can be sure of its presence by tasting the
water. Likewise, the indwelling Christ, though unseen, will be
made evident to others from the love which he imparts to us.

-- Sadhu Sundar Singh

May 6, 2007


VERSE:
And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for our's only,
but also for the sins of the whole world.
-- 1 John 2:2

http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+John+2:2&translation=kjv

THOUGHT:
Psst! I've got a great secret. Jesus died to set you free from
the guilt and punishment of your own sins. Psst #2! He didn't do it
just for you; he did it for everyone else, too! Spread the word.

PRAYER:
I am humbled to the point of silence, Almighty God and Heavenly
Father, that you would take your most precious gift and offer it
for something as ugly and horrid as my sins. I can think of no way
to repay you, but I want to thank you by sharing this good news
with everyone else for whom you've made this sacrifice. In Jesus'
name I pray. Amen.

A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is
his delight.

Proverbs 11:1, King James Version

 

 

In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

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May 5 & 6, 2007 – Genuine Awareness – 2 Kings 6:15-17

Welcome to the In Touch Devotional.

If someone asks if you’re aware of God, what will you say? Maybe you’d reply, “I go to church, read my Bible, and pray all the time. I’m definitely aware of God.” But the real question is this: Are you aware of God’s presence and activity in your daily life?

This second question makes it a bit more personal, doesn’t it? It refers to God being in our daily lives all the time. We’d like to have that constant awareness of God’s presence, but it’s difficult. When hardships and trials come from nowhere, we sometimes feel confused. We may feel like God has left us so alone.

During difficult times, we might pray even harder and longer. We plead for help, but see little result. The problem is that our prayers usually revolve around our desires. Even when communicating with God, we may be aware only of ourselves, leaving the Lord out of the matter entirely.

At that point, we may find we’re not really talking to the Father at all; we’re talking to ourselves. Perhaps we’re focusing on the problem and actually wishing for the ability to handle it on our own. We can, in effect, become completely blind to how God may be working.

Second Kings 6:15-17 gives us a clear picture of what happens when we remove our self-centered blinders and truly see God’s hand at work. Open your eyes. You may be shocked to discover the help God has already sent your way.

We must adjust to changing times and still hold to unchanging
principles.

-- Jimmy Carter

May 5, 2007


VERSE:
Cast away from you all your transgressions, whereby ye have
transgressed; and make you a new heart and a new spirit: for why
will ye die, O house of Israel? For I have no pleasure in the death
of him that dieth, saith the Lord GOD: wherefore turn yourselves,
and live ye.
-- Ezekiel 18:31-32

http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Ezekiel+18:31-32&translation=kjv

THOUGHT:
God reminds us to turn away from our own self-seeking ways. He
calls us to turn to him with a willingness to obey his will. If we
refuse, we must know that we are walking the road that leads to
death. God longs to do the work of rebirth and renewal, but he asks
us to turn from our destructive ways and offer our hearts to him to
be made new by his Holy Spirit. Repentance is to turn off the road
leading to destruction and onto the road that leads to the Father's
house, the place of life.

PRAYER:
Please forgive me, O mighty God, for trying to rule and govern
my own life. I confess that I've made a mess of things when I
haven't obeyed your Word and when I have rebelled against your
will. I want to turn my heart and life completely over to you. I
want to obey your will and to live for your glory. Thank you for
your forgiveness and strength as I seek to find life in you. In the
name of the Savior Jesus, I pray. Amen.

The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before
honour is humility.

Proverbs 15:33, King James Version

In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

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May 4, 2007 – Honoring Our Wives and Mothers – Romans 12:9-18

Welcome to the In Touch Devotional.

Throughout Scripture, the Lord calls us to love one another (Romans 13:8), live in harmony (Romans 12:16), and serve each other (Galatians 5:13). Husbands are in a position to put these words into practice toward their wives and mothers. Fathers can also influence their children to follow this example.

Showing honor begins by recognizing the enormous job God has given every mother. The Lord entrusted her with caring for the family. She provides support and encouragement to her husband, trains her children in godliness, and contributes to the well-being of the home. A Christian woman’s desire should be to carry out this mission in ways that please the Lord. We can uplift her by mentioning the godly qualities we see in her and our appreciation for all her efforts on our behalf. She’ll also be encouraged when we express words of affirmation and love that let her know how important she is to us and our family. We’ll also show her honor by relieving some of her burdens.

Being a good listener is another way of showing esteem to our wives and mothers.

We’re to pay attention to the significant women in our lives. And that doesn’t mean listening while watching television or interrupting the conversation to take a phone call. On a regular basis, mom needs time when family members concentrate exclusively on her and truly hear what she’s saying.

Ask the Holy Spirit to help you live out the Lord’s commands in a way that truly honors your loved ones.

 

It is a shame for a person to have been a Christian for years
but not to have advanced beyond the knowledge of his salvation.

-- Theodore Epp

May 4, 2007


VERSE:
Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not
to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say
unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children
unto Abraham.
-- Luke 3:8

http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Luke+3:8&translation=kjv

THOUGHT:
Grace is given to us as a free gift. It cannot be earned or
merited. But salvation that does not move us out of our
self-destructive and rebellious ways is counterfeit. Repentance is
a life change. It is a realization that we have been going the
wrong way on a one-way street. It is an acknowledgement that trying
to guide our own lives is always going to end in disappointment,
disaster, and death without Jesus being Lord of both our lips and
our lives. We know that God's grace is marvelous, but let's also
learn that his will is gracious. As we do, we will change our
behavior to reflect the character of the Father who sent his Son to
be the atoning sacrifice for our sins!

PRAYER:
Loving and merciful God, I realize that you saved me from my
past sins and also want to save me from the consequences of future
sins by calling me to obedience. Please help me as I turn my life
over to your will. Please strengthen me with your Spirit so that I
may resist temptation and reflect your holiness. Bring to life in
me the fruit that reflects your salvation and your character in me.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

The fear of the LORD prolongeth days: but the years of the
wicked shall be shortened.

Proverbs 10:27, King James Version

 

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In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

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May 1, 2007 – Profession and Performance – James 1:22-25

Welcome to the In Touch Devotional.

Close your eyes for a minute. Picture your own face. Imagine the slope of your cheek and the color of your eyes. Do you notice any freckles, dimples, or blemishes? Big nose or button nose? Thinning hair or a full mane? Crooked teeth or pearly whites?

You know exactly what you look like. Why? Because we all spend time in front of a mirror, studying our faces and getting to know ourselves. We're not born knowing what we look like. And if we didn't catch our own reflection from time to time, we'd honestly have no idea!

Now think of this in terms of faith. We're not born with knowledge of the saving truth of Jesus Christ. We don't inherently know the Bible. So, we must read, study, and carefully analyze Scripture for the Holy Spirit to communicate His message of salvation on our hearts and minds.

But how many people read the Bible and then walk away, seemingly unaffected? It's as though they forget the power of the Word as soon as they close the Good Book. These are the people who praise Jesus on Sunday, but forget about Him the rest of the week. These are the ones who, as the apostle James describes, forget what they look like.

James 1:22 says, "Prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves." The world is dying to know what genuine faith looks like. If you know Jesus as Lord, then you carry a sacred responsibility to show others the true face of faith. Let them see Christ reflected in you.

I know the power obedience has of making things easy which seem
impossible.

-- Teresa of Avila

May 1, 2007


VERSE:
We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you
in our prayers;
-- 1 Thessalonians 1:2

http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Thessalonians+1:2&translation=kjv

THOUGHT:
Why is it so hard to share with others that we have thanked God
for bringing them into our lives? God let his Son Jesus know his
love and approval. Remember his words at Jesus' baptism and
transfiguration? "This is my Son, whom I love ...." The apostle
Paul also let the struggling churches he started know that he was
praying for them regularly (cf. Philippians 1:3). It's a great
blessing to thank God for someone special in our lives. It's a
double blessing to let those people know we've thanked God for
their being in our lives. Let's commit to be a "double blessing"
people today!

PRAYER:
Gracious Father, you have blessed me in so many ways! Today,
however, I'm especially aware of the many incredible ways you have
blessed me through other people. I want to thank you now for the
following wonderful Christian people you have placed in my life ...
(put the names of special people in here and then be sure and let
them know you've thanked God for them). Please guard and strengthen
them and use them to bless others as they have blessed me. In
Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD:
though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished.

Proverbs 16:5, King James Version

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In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

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April 30, 2007 – Why Call Me "Lord"? – Luke 6:46-49

Jesus asked a pointed question to a group of His followers in Luke 6:46. He said, "Why do you call Me, 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say?" Using His illustration of the two builders, we can see four key truths.

First, professing faith in Christ without performance is deceptive. If you say you love Jesus on Sunday, but show no signs of a Spirit-led life all week, then you're living a lie. There's no other way to say it.

Second, profession followed by performance has a price. Some people wander through life without any real focus. They pay attention to the loudest voice or the brightest star. In contrast, living intently and passionately for Christ is usually difficult. Making wise choices may require extra effort, but the reward is well worth it.

The third key truth is this: profession followed by performance will succeed. Everyone on earth faces trials. And sometimes there's one devastating storm after another. But if we focus on God's Word and apply His truth to our circumstances, we'll be able to stand firm in difficult times. Our lives will be supported by the strong foundation of Jesus Christ.

Finally, professing faith in Christ without performance results in ruin. The world's "easy way" may seem more enjoyable, but it results in living without a spiritual base. When trouble comes, our lives would crumble. That's a far cry from the victory and strength our Savior wants us to experience.

Why do you call Jesus "Lord"? Do your actions reflect your faith? Be a wise builder. Construct your house on the strong foundation of Christ, and let your performance match what you profess.

God has reserved to Himself the right to determine the end of
life, because He alone knows the goal to which it is His will to
lead it. It is for Him alone to justify a life or to cast it
away.

-- Dietrich Bonhoeffer

April 30, 2007


VERSE:
But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in
glory by Christ Jesus.
-- Philippians 4:19

In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that
refraineth his lips is wise.

Proverbs 10:19, King James Version

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